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Dr. Vicky Hagstrom
is one of 1500 Physicians
to graduate from
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Olmsted Medical Center encourages families to become active
participants in the entire birth experience. Offering family-centered
participants in the entire birth experience. Offering family-centered
care from early pregnancy to baby’s arrival, our BirthCenter’s
care from early pregnancy to baby’s arrival, our BirthCenter’s
facilities and caregivers work hard to provide the best possible care
facilities
and
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theofbest
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know yourwork
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For a free tour of our BirthCenter, call 507.529.6759.

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The story of our patients is the story of us.

The story of our patients is the story of us.

20
COVER
20 Jeremiah Program
Propelling Determined single
mothers out of poverty into
prosperity.

MAY/ JUNE 2018

FINANCIAL

By Nicole Czarnomski

33 Budgeting and Savings
Financial goals for women
throughout their lives.

BEAUTY AND FASHION
13 I am a Beautiful
Rochester Woman
Acasia Wegner.

By Alison Rentschler

COMMUNITY

By Gina Dewink

15 Like Mothers, Like Daughters
Multigenerational fun living
in Rochester.
By Emily Watkins

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May/June 2018 RWmagazine.com

I am passionate about taking care of myself by making time to exercise,
eating healthy and getting enough sleep. I am also passionate about
my financial security, so I work a full-time day job and manage
RochesterWomen magazine. I am passionate about being a good mom,
spending time with my 12-year-old son on a daily basis and my collegeaged children as often as I can. I am also passionate about maintaining
relationships with my extended family and friends. When I choose in
favor of my passions, I choose with intention for less tension. However,
there are days that my passions come in conflict with each other and in
those instances, what rises to the top is, of course, my role as a mom.
My son had the flu four times this winter, causing me stress. Fortunately,
he is old enough to stay home alone while I worked, but what fell
to the bottom of the list was taking care of myself. It’s the reality of
motherhood, especially single motherhood.
If you can relate to my passions and struggles, you will enjoy many of
the articles we have gathered for you for this May/June Mother’s Day
issue. We featured my friend Allison Loftus in the May/June 2017 issue,
and this year she shares her creative writing and counseling skills with
RochesterWomen magazine readers (page 11). Following is our I Am
a Beautiful Rochester Woman story about Acasia Wegner, a young heart
attack survivor and mother (page 13). Continue on through this issue for
Mother’s Day gift ideas and brunch recipes (pages 24-25).
On the cover of this issue is JoMarie Morris who, coincidentally, we
featured in the first Spring issue of RochesterWomen magazine 18
years ago. “Climbing Up the Legal Ladder, law partner JoMarie Morris,”
written by Amy Swain covered Morris’ single motherhood, law career
and challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field. Much
has changed in the world since then and for Morris who is now heading
the Jeremiah Program in Rochester, helping women and children in atrisk situations move ahead two generations at a time.
All moms know there’s just not enough time in the day to take care
of themselves some days, but I do encourage you to take some time for
yourself this Mother’s Day and as often as you can. If you are a mom,
thank you for putting so much of yourself into making someone else’s life
better. You are appreciated.

June 16 - 24
Various places around Rochester.
Rochesterfest is committed to promoting and
celebrating the city of Rochester and southeast
Minnesota annually by connecting people
through a variety of wholesome, entertaining
community events. Enjoy annual events like
Relay for Life, treasure hunt, triathlon and a
parade among many others.

ROCHESTER HONKERS
OPENING NIGHT

STAY OUT OF THE SUN RUN
Fri., May 18, 5:00 p.m.
Lourdes High School, 2800 19th St. NW
The Stay Out of the Sun Run
is a unique opportunity to
run a race on a Friday night!
Join us for a 5K/10K run or
for a 5K walk. All proceeds
benefit melanoma research
and education through the
Mayo Clinic Cancer Center.
In addition to the run & walk, there will also be
a silent auction, live music, bounce house and
much more! Follow us on Facebook @SOSrun
where we will post details as they are confirmed.
Register at www.sosrun.org.

ART ON THE AVE
Sat., May 19, 9:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
9 ½ Avenue SE
Art on the Ave is an annual
spring art festival in the
Slatterly Park neighborhood.
The event showcases local
artisans and musicians. The
highlight of the event is the unveiling of a permanent
boulevard sculpture, which will be the fourteenth
public sculpture brought to the neighborhood.
Locally designed T-shirts will be available for sale.
Art on the Ave is an initiative to promote education
of the arts, encourage walkability and attract
Rochester citizens to downtown neighborhoods.
Food and drink will be available for purchase
from Grand Rounds Brewing Co., Hefe Rojo &
People’s Food Coop; no carry-ins please. More at
on6thave.org/art-on-the-ave.

THURSDAYS ON FIRST & 3RD
Thursdays,
June 7 - Aug. 30,
11:00 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
First Avenue SW /
Peace Plaza
Thursdays on First & 3rd is an event that unites
the Rochester community and provides a free
option to simply enjoy life, feel a sense of place,
and interact with others! Enjoy art, craft and
food vendors as well as live entertainment on
two stages from 11:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. and
again from 5-6 p.m. every Thursday throughout
the summer. Dogs are welcome at Thursdays,
but must be on a leash.

TEN MONTHS AT THE BORDER
Mon., May 7, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Assisi Heights, 1001 14th Street NW
Hear the journey of one who spent 10 months
on the U.S./Mexico border living in solidarity
with the poor. Annunciation House in El Paso,
Texas is a hospitality house that provides
accompaniment and advocacy to the poorest
of the poor migrants and refugees. This year
marks 40 years of service run entirely by
volunteers and donations, sharing the life and
providing basic needs of food, clothing and
shelter. Jane Greil, a Rochester area resident
and retired nurse, followed her inner call to
serve. She fell in love with the mission and has
just returned from an additional four months of
service. Donations appreciated.

HALLOWED EARTH:
EXPLORING FRANCISCAN VALUES
Mon., May 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Thurs., June 14, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Explore the topography of Assisi Height’s
110 acres held sacred by Franciscan values
of caring for the soil, respecting and living in
harmony with the wildlife, and compassion
for those who seek solace and peace by
walking the earth. Experience some healing
ways of cultivating personal renewal through
this contemplative walk. Spiritual meditative
practices will be incorporated while wandering
the land. Wear walking shoes. Sister Marlys
Jax, AHSC program coordinator, will guide
this expedition. $10 pre-registered/prepaid.
$15 day of program. To register, go to
rochesterfranciscan.org, select the date under
‘Events’ or contact Angie at 507-280-2195.

Dr. Lucy Gores is a third generation dentist who graduated
from Creighton University School of Dentistry in 2014. She
returned home to work with her father, Dr. James Gores,
who started Lakeside Dentistry in 1986.
While keeping a focus on preventative dentistry,
Dr. Gores emphasizes that patient comfort and personal
attention to detail are imperative to her
practice of dentistry.”
Colors:

EEP DOWN INSIDE ME IS A PASSION TO PLANT
IN EVERY WOMAN’S HEART THE FUNDAMENTAL
LIFE VALUE THAT SHE IS LOVABLE, WORTHY AND
SIGNIFICANT. AS A CHILD I KNEW MY LOVE
FOR PEOPLE TRANSCENDED THE BOUNDARIES
OF MY BACKYARD. WHEN I WAS 5 YEARS OLD,
I REMEMBER TELLING MY MOM THAT GOD HAD
CALLED ME TO HELP PEOPLE. I DIDN'T QUITE
UNDERSTAND WHAT THAT MEANT UNTIL FATHER’S
DAY 2007 WHEN I MISCARRIED BABY LOFTUS AT
13 WEEKS GESTATION. ON THAT DAY, A PATH
WAS LAID OUT FOR ME THAT WOULD LEAD ME
TO GRADUATING WITH A MASTER’S DEGREE IN
COUNSELING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES.

MY HEART KNEW
When the opportunity presented itself earlier this year for me to spend 15
days in Uganda providing mental health care for women of Kyampisi, my
heart said, “Go.” My mind said many other things, but my heart did not
hesitate. It knew I needed to go to Africa.
Even though I have never traveled overseas and have never been away
from my children or husband for more than a few days at a time, I packed
my bags and boarded a plane for Uganda.
When the plane landed, my world opened to red dirt
and seas of people, cast against a hue of deep greens:
Uganda. I had arrived. I was not afraid. I stepped off the
plane with my pockets full of hope and curiosity. The
unexpected awaited me, and I was ready to learn. And
learn I did.

Photo courtesy of Allison Loftus.

“AM I ENOUGH?”

Mother and baby
enjoying a few
quiet moments while
waiting for group.

We all struggle at times with these same thoughts and feelings. Mental
health difficulties do not discriminate. At some point each person on this
Earth will be affected by a mental health complication, either themselves or
through someone close to them.

COMPASSION FOR THE STRUGGLE

Thoughts of inadequacy tip a mind toward the pits of despair and construct
walls of isolation around our spirits. Hearts do not grow and flourish in
isolation. Kindness, patience, peace and joy are all qualities cultivated in
community. The women of Kyampisi show how to love
well amid heartache and reinforce the value of loving
yourself well.
As a kid, I was taught to leave a room a little bit better
than how I found it. As I grew older, these rooms shifted
from those with four walls into the rooms containing the
our struggles
human spirit, each one connected to each other through
community. With this perspective in my heart, it is my
as women
dearest hope that when I left Kyampisi, I left it a little bit
are universal.
better. May we all carry compassion in our hearts as we
are all connected through our common struggles.

As my group sessions with the women of Kyampisi
progressed, I began to understand how much we share
as women and was touched by how connected we are
as human beings. Thousands of miles apart, living in
different continents and yet, I learned, we are more
alike than we are different.
Our conversations about self-esteem, body image and
self-care made it clear that our struggles as women are
universal. As each woman wrestled with the questions of “Am I good mom?”,
“Am I lovable?”, “Am I pretty?”, “Am I enough?”, I was filled with the comfort
of companionship and my heart began to overflow with compassion. As tears
silently fell into the dust, I saw we were made of the same Earth, and in our
hearts we carry the same burdens as women and as mothers.

RochesterWomen Magazine at Forager Brewery/Fiddlehead Coffee in February
2018) her desire to become a writer and motivational speaker. I am immediately inspired
by her writing. If you are inspired, too, please cheer her on when you see her or comment
on Facebook.
RWmagazine.com May/June 2018 11

N THE SOLA SALON STUDIOS SHOPPES ON MAINE LOCATION IS A
REMARKABLE WOMAN NAMED ACASIA WEGNER. SHE IS KNOWN
LOCALLY FOR HER ARTISTIC AND FRIENDLY NATURE AND FOR
THRIVING AGAINST HEALTH ODDS.

STYLIST GETS A MAKEOVER
Wegner’s clients are what make the salon so
special. Wegner exclaims, “We talk about our
families and lives…I look forward to seeing
every single one of them!” One such client is
Gayle Kall, who nominated Wegner for the I
Am a Beautiful Rochester Woman makeover.
Kall emphasizes Wegner is “a role model in so
many ways.”
Mandy Johnson, another stylist from Sola,
styled Wegner’s hair for her photo shoot with
Dawn Sanborn Photography. Wegner comments,
“It was a really enjoyable experience. My hair is
styled and colored more often than it probably
should be,” she says with a laugh, “but being the
one sitting in the chair was something I haven’t
experienced in years. I loved it!”

HEART DISEASE DIAGNOSIS
On April 12, 2008, at just 20 years old, Wegner
suffered a heart attack. She was playing cards
with friends when she was overcome with
sudden nausea. She left the gathering to sleep at
a friend’s house, but the nausea only got worse.
Wegner recalls, “The whole time I was lying
there trying to sleep, I kept thinking about this
book my grandparents gave me when I was
a kid, ‘The Hatchet,’ by Gary Paulson. In the
book, the pilot of a plane has a heart attack.
The author describes the symptoms, and I keep
replaying those words in my head. The weirdest
part is I really didn’t think I was having a heart
attack. I thought maybe if I went home to my
own bed, I’d feel better.” Wegner then went
outside, scraped her windshield and started

driving home. “When I got to the Second
Street lights,” Wegner says, “I don’t know why,
but I turned for St. Marys.” Figuring she would
be sent back home, Wegner parked across the
street and walked over.
Stylist Wegner enjoyed
being a client for a change.

I was 20!
I refused to live
like I was 80.

After being administered morphine, Wegner
tried to convince the emergency room physicians
she was better. Wegner recalls, “It wasn’t until
they told me about the stent procedure they
needed to do they finally said, ‘You’re having a
heart attack.’”

LIFE FOREVER CHANGED
“I was 20!” Wegner proclaims, “I refused to
live like I was 80. I didn’t take my pills, I didn’t
go to appointments, and soon I was admitted
again for ventricular tachycardia. I was told I
needed an implanted defibrillator. I didn’t want
it. I sabotaged the surgery by drinking a bunch
of juice and checking myself out. My grandma
looked me in the eye and said, ‘I guess the next
time I will see you will be at your funeral.’”
Days later, Wegner did have the surgery. The
reason for the heart attack at a young age was

unknown at that time—and remained unknown
until last year when Wegner learned of prominent
heart disease on the paternal side of her family,
her father and two of his siblings passing before
age 40. She insists her life didn’t change for the
better until 2009 when she became pregnant.
Her doctors told her the strength of her heart
combined with her medications would make
pregnancy too dangerous, but thankfully there
were no complications.
Wegner believes if she was only allowed one
child, she got the perfect one. “He’s an angel,”
she states. “His name is Jace, which means the
healer. He truly saved my life.” Since Jace’s birth,
Wegner has made significant changes to better
her life. She lost 117 pounds, mostly using the
MyFitnessPal app, and married “the love of her
life.” Inside and out, Acasia Wegner is truly a
beautiful Rochester Woman.

Gina Dewink is a Rochester area
writer (writing when her precocious
preschooler and fearless toddler
allow). Her exciting time travel
thriller, “Time in My Pocket,” is
available on ginadewink.com.
RWmagazine.com May/June 2018 13

At Dunlap & Seeger, we work with local and national clients to build a sense of community in Rochester.
Real Estate • Estate Planning • Family Law • Personal Injury • Business Law • Bankruptcy
30 3rd Street SE, Suite 400
Rochester, MN 55904

Contact Us: 507.288.9111
dunlaplaw.com

Like Us

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give you all the essential camera skills, in a quick and
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Marge, Holly, Tracey, Ayva and Maya recently got
together to learn how to arrange flowers at Fox & Fern Floral.

O

NE ROCHESTER FAMILY HAS BEEN GETTING TOGETHER WEEKLY
ON FRIDAYS AS LONG AS AYVA AND MAYA FOGARTY AND
EMMA AND ABBY HESS CAN REMEMBER. THESE FOUR GIRLS WHO
RANGE IN AGE FROM 14 TO 22 HAVE THE PRIVILEGE OF SPENDING
A LOT OF TIME WITH THEIR MOMS, TRACEY FOGARTY AND HOLLY
HESS, THEIR GRANDMA, BONNIE STEVENSON, AND THEIR GREATGRANDMA, MARGE BLOCK, BECAUSE IT IS A FAMILY PRIORITY TO
SPEND FREQUENT QUALITY TIME TOGETHER.

POSITIVELY FAMILY & FRIENDS
They all share that a positive attitude has been
modeled by both Marge and Bonnie. “We’re
all blessed with Grandma’s demeanor, which is
accepting and loving,” says Holly. Tracey adds,
“We always look forward to getting together.”
And this positivity extends beyond their family.
Tracey says some of her friends ask if they can be
part of the family. Bonnie adds, “Our friends tell
us all the time that we are lucky that we live close
and we want to do things together.”
Sisters Holly and Tracey have long considered
themselves best friends. Tracey says, “We know
the good, the bad and the ugly, and no matter
what, our relationship is supportive. Anybody
is lucky to have a person that they can tell
everything to, and we have each other.”
Similarly, Emma and Abby have already
decided that they want to live near each other
when they are done with college. Tracey’s

daughters, Maya and Ayva, used to fight all the
time, but “ever since you (Ayva) got your license,
we’ve gotten closer,” laughs Maya. “We’re
so close because they’re so close,” says Ayva,
referring to her mom and her aunt. Bonnie
adds, “They might not realize how much they
learn from us.”
Tracey shares they also have “genuinely caring
spouses who support our family bond and knowhow deep our connection is. They support the
time we spend together.”

ACTIVITIES ACROSS
GENERATIONS
Holly says, “Each of us has our way of getting
out of our head.” She and Marge love to quilt,
which “takes your mind off everything else.”
Emma meditates every day. Maya and Ayva like
to listen to music and watch Netflix. Tracey
likes to take trips with Holly and her friends.

One trip the whole family took (on a
chartered bus) was to see Emma’s first game as a
Vikings cheerleader in the fall of 2016, and Tracey
says, “Grandma got to go to the very first game in
the new stadium.” Emma’s favorite picture is the
one of Marge waving to her from the stands.
An activity that spans the generations is Bunco.
Marge’s mom belonged to a group in the 40s, and
each generation since has been in a group. Holly
says that it is “a way for ladies to get together and
talk. It’s like therapy.”
Gardening is another shared interest among
the women. “We grew up pulling things out of
Grandma’s garden,” says Holly, who belongs to the
Rochester Garden and Flower Club, along with
Tracey and Bonnie. They have all been on the
garden tour, and as a family, they adopted a garden
at Mayo High School.

MAKING MEMORIES
TOGETHER
Bonnie, Holly, Tracey, Emma and Abby all
graduated from Mayo High School, and Ayva and
Maya are currently students there. Emma says you
really think about what you say and do with so
much family around and when “you’re Facebook
friends with your great-grandma.”
The family prayer is “Johnny Appleseed,” which
perfectly sums up their gratitude for each other.
Their family exudes love and positivity.

Emily Watkins is a local writer.

Writer's Note: Take your mom, sisters, daughters
or friends shopping in the Cooke Park Design
District. Shop for unique clothes and home
decorations at Real Deals, find fun things for
your home as well as locally made jewelry and
candles at Dwell Local. Take time for coffee at
Old Abe’s on Seventh Street or at Fiddlehead
Coffee Co. or eat lunch at Forager.
RWmagazine.com May/June 2018 15

mayocreditunion.org | 507-535-1460 | 800-535-2129
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4/5/18 11:45 AM

2018 ROCHESTER
SATURDAY, AUGUST 25

RCTC – REGIONAL SPORTS CENTER
During the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End
Alzheimer’s®, participants carry flowers representing
their connection to Alzheimer’s – a disease that
currently has no cure.
But what if one day there was a flower for
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for the world’s largest fundraiser to fight the disease.

accessible child care especially in the education
centers where parents and their kids can go
together.” Immigrants benefit from learning
about government resources and the rules of
their new country. It is also helpful for them
to get help meeting people from their home
countries so that they can maintain a sense
of identity while adapting to a new culture
and country.
Intercultural Mutual Assistance Association
(IMAA) is another great resource for resettled
refugees and immigrants. It provides services in
50 different languages to help with issues such
as employment, language and health. Navigating
permanent residency can be daunting all on its
own. IMAA provides guidance and access to lowincome legal aid if necessary.

LIVING THE DREAM

NADA
BASTAMI

LIVING THE AMERICAN DREAM
BY DANIELLE TEAL PHOTOGRAPHY BY FAGAN STUDIOS
Bastami and her children.

HE AMERICAN DREAM ENTICES MANY TO TAKE A RISK AND
MAKE THE TREK TO THE UNITED STATES. WITH THE ILLUSION OF
PROSPERITY AND SUCCESS, THE ALLURE IS APPEALING. ACCORDING
TO THE PEW RESEARCH CENTER, MORE THAN 40 MILLION PEOPLE1
WHO LIVE IN THE UNITED STATES ARE IMMIGRANTS. THIS ACCOUNTS
FOR 13.4 PERCENT OF THE U.S. POPULATION. IMMIGRATING TO THE
UNITED STATES IS NO EASY TASK, AND EACH PERSON’S JOURNEY TO
THE UNITED STATES IS UNIQUE.

HOPES AND CHALLENGES
In 2013, Nada Bastami emigrated from Sudan
after her husband was selected for the lottery. The
“lottery” is the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program.
It releases up to 50,000 immigrant visas each year
with a random selection process allowing entry
to immigrants from various countries.2 Bastami, a
mother of twins, had a dream to come to America
because of better education opportunities for
her children, gender equality, enhanced quality
of living and the reputation for being the most
immigrant-friendly society in the world. Once she
arrived, she learned that while the United States
had its perks, it wasn’t going to be easy.

Adapting to a new country while trying to
maintain one’s cultural identity can be challenging.
One of the barriers is learning a different language.
Bastami says she is grateful for places like Rochester
Adult and Family Literacy (RFL) at the Hawthorne
Education Center. She says RFL is a “second
home” to her because she was given an excellent
foundation that better equipped her to obtain a job
and engage in her new community.

HELPING HANDS
Another obstacle is cost of living, especially
the cost of child care. She says new immigrants
would benefit from “increasing opportunities
for immigrant parents (mothers) by having

Given the challenges, Bastami says it is worth
it to come to America. She says, “Rochester
is a great place to live in the United States.
Minnesota is safe, quiet, has fun activities for
every season and is home to friendly people.
There’s something for everyone to appreciate.”
Bastami adds, “Americans have been very
accepting and polite…everyone is looking for
equality – equal opportunities in education,
health care and work. All people are equal here
regardless of belief, background or color.”
Bastami and her family have been grateful to
have the opportunities here in America, and she
does not take it for granted. She says, “We receive,
but we should give something back to this great
country. This is what we should raise our children
to do as well.”

THE WORLD IN OUR BACKYARD
If you’d like to learn more about other cultures,
the Rochester International Association (RIA)
hosts an annual World Festival in the spring.
Many different cultures participate in the event
and share their traditions, which may include
performances through dance, poetry and song.
Food from around the world also helps share
customs. This year's World Festival was held April
28 at Mayo High School. Learn more by visiting
ria-minnesota.org/worldfestival.
There are ways you can help welcome
someone who is brand new to the area from
another country. You can help them find
resources such as RFL, IMAA and RIA. Honor
their customs and traditions by asking about
them. Invite them to dinner to share your
customs. They’ll probably return the favor,
creating a beautiful new worldly friendship.

Danielle Teal is a freelance writer.
RWmagazine.com May/June 2018 17

2
THE PERFECT
PACKAGE
FOR MOM.
No wrapping paper required.

Celebrate everything moms do with the
Mother’s Day Package at Rejuvenate Spa.
This three-part gift includes an express
facial, express pedicure and a sea
scrub body treatment, all for just $150.
As always, exceptional service is our gift
to you—gratuity is never accepted.

CALL 507-328-0113
OR STOP BY TODAY.

HEALTHY LIVING PROGRAM

Rochester Area Moms

1

community

WHERE EVERYBODY KNOWS YOUR NAME
BY GINA DEWINK

I

MAGINE COMING HOME WITH YOUR
NEWBORN BABY, WEARY AND ELATED, TO
FIND SOMEONE HAD COOKED YOUR DINNER
FOR YOU. NOW IMAGINE A TROOP OF PEOPLE
BRINGING YOU MEALS WITHIN THOSE FIRST FEW
DAYS. THIS IS WHAT THE ROCHESTER AREA MOMS
GROUP CALLS THEIR MEAL TRAIN, AND IT’S JUST
ONE OF THE MANY PERKS OF BEING A MEMBER
OF THIS LOCAL GROUP.

Photos courtesy of Rochester area moms.

Amanda Nigon-Crowley, head chair of Rochester Area Moms, says,
“I always find it heartwarming to see busy families making time for one
another, yet that’s just what Rochester Area Moms is all about—making
time to connect.”

Rochester Area Moms is an activities and support group for mothers
interested in connecting with other women and families who are at a
similar stage in life. Originally called F.E.M.A.L.E., the group evolved into
Mothers & More and eventually became Rochester Area Moms in 2016. The
group has been active in Rochester for more than 18 years. “The majority
of members join when their children are in the infant or early years of
childhood,” Nigon-Crowley explains. “But
many stay until the children become schoolage.” The mission to empower and educate
mothers while providing opportunities for
connection is what drives the group.
“We fill a valuable need for a place
that moms can connect with each other,
support each other and have a place to
call their own. Yes, we do this by getting
together in real life!” Nigon-Crowley adds
smiling. “We host regular community
events such as playgroups, book clubs and
meeting for dinner or brunch.” In addition
to regular events, Rochester Area Moms
also participates in annual events such as
decorating a tree for the Hiawatha Homes
Festival of Trees, a family fall picnic and
holiday gatherings such as Trunk-Or-Treat
and an Easter egg hunt.
“Our group is really as involved as
you’d like it to be. We also host a mixture
of educational parenting events, financial
planning meetings, family gatherings,
Playgroups indoors and
sledding parties, trips to the zoo. Our
out are one way members
member interests really drive what we put on
and their kids get to know
our planning calendar,” says Nigon-Crowley.

One of the most popular features of Rochester Area Moms membership
is the online forum. “Our Facebook group is used by most members on
a regular basis to ask questions and provide feedback. Our members ask
questions on everything from how to get a 1-year-old to sleep through the
night to where to get a car repaired.”
The forum has become a treasured resource for many families,
providing assistance with spontaneous needs and parenting questions—
even in the middle of the night. Nigon-Crowley adds, “The saying, ‘It
takes a village to raise a child,’ really is true, and I'm very impressed by the
support this group provides.”
Often, members of Rochester Area Moms are also members of other
groups such as Mothers of Multiples, Med City Moms or Moms on the
Run. With so many options, Nigon-Crowley is proud to see membership
growing. “I’m grateful to know we are doing what we set out to do 18
years ago and still remaining relevant. I love that our group is open to all
moms needing to find each other—as well as find themselves—on this
crazy journey called motherhood.”

each other.

JOINING ROCHESTER AREA MOMS
Anyone considering joining the group can attend a public event listed on
RochMoms.org. Though the group’s name is centered around mothers,
any parent or caregiver can join. Nigon-Crowley says, “Joining the group
requires the new member to make the initial contact and put themselves
out there, which can be intimidating, but don’t be shy!”
Rochester Area Moms also offers scholarship memberships and
encourages potential members to try two events before joining. Membership
is $30 per year. Find ways to connect to the group online at RochMoms.org.

Gina Dewink is a Rochester area writer (writing when her
precocious preschooler and fearless toddler allow). Her
exciting time travel thriller, “Time in My Pocket,” is available
on ginadewink.com.
RWmagazine.com May/June 2018 19

cover

2

eremiah
Program
PROPELLING DETERMINED SINGLE
MOTHERS OUT OF POVERTY AND
INTO PROSPERITY
BY NICOLE L. CZARNOMSKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWN FAGAN

T

HOUSANDS OF SINGLE MOTHERS IN SOUTHEASTERN MINNESOTA RECEIVE SOME TYPE OF
GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE AND STRUGGLE TO
PROVIDE THE BASIC NEEDS FOR THEIR CHILDREN.
JEREMIAH PROGRAM’S HOLISTIC APPROACH HELPS
TRANSFORM TWO GENERATIONS AT A TIME BY
PROVIDING EDUCATION, TOOLS AND RESOURCES
FOR BOTH MOTHER AND CHILD.

JEREMIAH PROGRAM EXPANDS TO ROCHESTER
Jeremiah Program was founded in Minneapolis in 1993 by Michael J.
O’Connell. He gathered leaders in the area from the key sectors of business,
education, faith, government and philanthropy to move the vision forward.
The program has continued to expand into other cities across the nation.
About five years ago, Paul Fleissner, head of Olmsted County Community
Services at the time, learned about Jeremiah Program while listening to CEO
Gloria Perez speak in Washington, D.C. Amazed with the program’s mission
and two-generation approach, Fleissner arranged a time to meet with Perez
in Minneapolis. After meeting with her, he corralled community leaders in
Rochester to launch a program.

JOMARIE MORRIS LEADS THE WAY
JoMarie Morris, a Rochester attorney working with the immigrant
community and women’s issues, decided her passion was in nonprofit work,
and in 2014, she transitioned out of her law practice to pursue a leadership
position for an organization aligned with her passion. She met with
Fleissner, who is now the Olmsted County director of health, housing and
human services, about Jeremiah Program. He encouraged and supported her
endeavors to launch a local program.
Morris started as a consultant for Jeremiah Program, and she says, “I
assembled an advisory committee including key people in the areas of
higher education, early childhood development, philanthropy and faith.
We completed a yearlong feasibility study and presented it to the Jeremiah
Program National Board.” Because of these efforts, Rochester was approved
to launch a campus for 40 families headed by single mothers. In January
2017, they appointed Morris as executive director
of Jeremiah Program Rochester-Southeast Minnesota.

FUNDRAISING FOR THE PROGRAM
“We will be raising money and looking at governmental support to build a
campus. The goal is to break ground in the summer of 2019 and have a fully
operating campus by the summer of 2020,” Morris says. The campus will be
located north of Lourdes High School near the intersection of Valleyhigh
20 May/June 2018 RWmagazine.com

Drive and 19th Street, thanks to the generous donation of two acres of land
by the Remick family. Mayo Clinic, the Otto Bremer Trust, the Rochester
Area Foundation and the Schaap Family Foundation have helped fund the
program launch. Support from the Sisters of St. Francis of Rochester and
other local organizations has also been critical to the organization’s success.

THE VETTING PROCESS
The young women knocking on Jeremiah Program’s door asking for assistance
have had their children at a young age and have little or no family support.
The majority of women receive public assistance and have little to no
work experience. The children entering Jeremiah Program have frequently
experienced significant trauma. Morris says, “Many of them come from
abusive homes; 60 percent have seen the abuse of drugs or alcohol in the
home. Thirty percent have witnessed or experienced violence, and 5 percent
have special needs.”
The program is open to single moms 18 years of age and older and those
who are living in poverty but determined to make the leap out of poverty.
The women accepted into Jeremiah Program must complete a 16-week
empowerment program. Morris says the program is about “cognitive
restructuring, responsibility, expectations and teaches self-reliance.” The
empowerment program of Jeremiah Program in Rochester begins in the fall
of 2018.
For 16 weeks, these strong-willed young women show up and receive
training to change their mindset from victim to powerful self. Then they go
through a pre-application process. Women must have their GED or high
school diploma, are drug tested and need to have selected a career path.
Jeremiah Program helps connect the applicants to counseling offices at
colleges to help them determine their career trajectory.
After the women have been vetted and accepted into the program, they’re
given an opportunity to obtain a two-year or four-year degree program
from the college of their choice. Many participants will start at Rochester
Community and Technical College to complete general education courses
and later move on to other schools to complete a degree program. Since many
women subsist in poverty, they qualify for Pell Grants and scholarships so
they can graduate with little or no debt.

T.L.C. FROM THE
COMMUNITY AND STAFF
There are five core pillars of the program. Morris
explains, “The secret sauce of Jeremiah Program
is the community piece.” Rochester community
members provide mentorship, volunteer to cook
meals, teach weekly life skills and empowerment
classes and care for the children while moms are
studying. During their studies, women are given
safe and affordable housing, on-site early childhood
education provided by Families First, life skills and
empowerment training, support for a career-track
college education as well as one-on-one coaching to
deal with daily challenges and opportunities.
“Jeremiah takes away the barriers so they can
succeed,” Morris says. Women are also encouraged
to volunteer or work part time while working
toward their college degree. This provides much
needed work experience to prepare them for life
after Jeremiah Program. In addition, the moms who
live on campus “develop a sisterhood of helping one
another and caring for each other as they complete
their degrees and move out into the world with
successful jobs.”
Christine Smith, Jeremiah Program alumna, says,
“The staff is…caring, empathetic and confident in
the abilities of each woman. They listened to our
concerns and were the ones to give us tissues when
we cried. They’re more like aunties than staff.”

BREAKING FREE FROM TRAUMA
Smith, a Native American, participated in the
program in the early 2000s in the Twin Cities. She
experienced a lot of adverse conditions growing
up and later found herself shackled to an unhealthy
relationship. Although the relationship was not
suitable for her, the couple had two children, and
she wanted the best for her kids. During this time,
she went to counseling. Her counselor encouraged
her to break out of the unhealthy relationship and
pursue Jeremiah Program so her children would be
exposed to a more positive environment.
Jeremiah Program helped her create a new life
starting with a peaceful home environment. “Living
on campus was like living in a sanctuary for the
first time in my life,” Smith says. This enabled her
to focus on her goals. She wanted to break the cycle
and be an example for other single moms while
creating systems and policies to better understand
how trauma affects communities, especially AfricanAmerican and Native American communities.
“Historically there has been a lot of trauma in those
communities, and breaking that cycle is vital to
moving forward,” Smith explains. The sisterhood
that Smith developed with the other women in the
program provided invaluable support to complete
her college degree and created lifelong friendships.
Smith is now employed at the Minnesota
Department of Health in the Office of Statewide

Health Improvement Initiatives. She is the health
equity and tribal grant supervisor. Her role focuses
on healthy eating, active living and tobacco
cessation work in communities in Minnesota.
She completed her master’s degree in Family Life
Education in September 2017.
Smith’s advice to young women trying to
break out of the cycle is to, “Learn how to love
yourself.” She adds, “It will set the tone for how you
care for your children and how your children will
feel about themselves.”
If you would like to support Jeremiah Program,
please contact JoMarie Morris for more information
at 507-208-7675 or JMorris@jeremiahprogram.org.

Nicole L. Czarnomski is a freelance
writer in southeastern Minnesota.

RWmagazine.com May/June 2018 21

2
2

health and wellness

Have an Empowered
Birth Experience

PERINATAL EDUCATION PROVIDES CONFIDENCE

BY BRITTANY BAKER

class, Fry recommends one of the childbirth
series. “We offer the series over four weeks
or condensed over a weekend. It is the most
comprehensive class to prepare them,” explains
Fry. The Comforts Plus class, for patients who
desire a natural birth, teaches mindfulness,
birthing positions as well as emotional and
spiritual coping techniques.
Fry’s favorite class to teach at OMC is the
Refresher Childbirth class. When she asks
families, “If you had the power to keep something
the same or change something about your
upcoming birth, what would (it be)?”, she says
magic happens when they share their stories.

MAYO CLINC
PERINATAL CLASSES

M

ANY PEOPLE PLAN FOR THEIR WEDDINGS, SPENDING TIME
IN PREMARITAL COUNSELING, RESEARCHING VENUES AND
HIRING VENDORS. SO WHY, WHEN IT COMES TO THE BIRTH OF OUR
CHILDREN, DO WE NOT EQUIP OURSELVES IN THE SAME WAY? LET’S
HEAR ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF PERINATAL EDUCATION FROM
SOME LOCAL CHILDBIRTH EDUCATORS.

HOW TO PREPARE
FOR CHILDBIRTH

The definition
of ‘perinatal’
according to
Merriam-Webster
is ‘Occurring in,
concerned with, or
being in the period
around the time
of birth.’
22 May/June 2018 RWmagazine.com

Perinatal Education Coordinator Amy Fry
at Olmsted Medical Center Women’s Health
Pavilion has been coordinating and teaching
perinatal education classes for 18 years. She works
with expecting families through childbirth and
breastfeeding classes and shares resources for
additional support.
Fry says that perinatal education is important
and adds, “If you don’t know your options, you
don’t have any.” Education empowers the birthing
family to believe in the strength and capabilities
of their amazing bodies. Fry reminds pregnant
women, “The contractions aren’t stronger than
you are, they are you.”
OMC offers 10 different classes for expecting
families. For families who can only take a single

OH BABY! NOT YOUR
MOTHER’S LAMAZE CLASS
MedCity Doulas offers individualized in-home
and online childbirth education for expecting
families. Co-owner Amanda Steele, a birth doula
and Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, says,
“We tailor the evidence-based curriculum to meet
the needs of the family from childbirth basics,
mindfulness and relaxation, comfort skills and
pain management, to newborn care and feeding
solutions.”
Steele loves getting families excited about
their options and empowered to make decisions
through their pregnancy and birth process.
She says, “(The education) can make them feel
confident as they transition into parenting.”

UNIQUE BIRTHING
EXPERIENCE
KatieAnn McKee, owner of Harmony Support,
is a certified HypnoBirthing, Mongan Method
practitioner. She says that perinatal education
“helps ease some anxieties and allows for the
families to form their own birth story.”
The importance of creating a positive

Photos courtesy Bliss Photography

Education is important for an empowered birth experience.

Mayo Clinic offers classes for adoptive parents,
new parents, young moms, grandparents and
siblings. Standard childbirth preparation classes
are offered, as well as yoga, comfort strategies for
labor and mindfulness courses to help mothers
feel more calm and confident.
According to mayoclinic.org Healthy Lifestyle
Week by Week series, “During childbirth classes,
you'll have the chance to talk about your fears
with other women who probably share the same
concerns. The instructor can dispel myths and
help put your mind at ease. Research suggests that
women who take childbirth classes know more
about labor and delivery and are less likely to have
psychological distress than women who didn't go
to classes.”

Family Law

1

health and wellness

• Divorce
• Support
• Paternity

Amanda Steele
shares a resour
ce
with an expecti
ng
mother.

• Custody
• Maintenance
• Adoption
• Property Division

experience is a priority at OMC. Fry says, “That
experience will look different for every birthing
family. For some, a scheduled cesarean birth is the
positive experience; for others it could be avoiding
an epidural. Our goal is to get to know each
person individually and help them get to know the
options they have.”
The common thread shared by each of these
educators is that each birthing family is unique
and should explore their options for perinatal
education, the same way some of us seek a
destination wedding, others elope and some
marry in a church. Knowledge is power; being
an informed decision-maker during the perinatal
period can only enhance your experience.

Nursing and
Pumping
Amanda Steele’s favorite class to teach
through MedCity Doula’s is Infant
Feeding Solutions. Saying, “Finding
solutions for the modern, working family
can be challenging and is usually a big
stressor for expecting parents.”
Olmsted Medical Center and Mayo
Clinic both provide next level classes
for parents. OMC offers the Pump It
Up! Breastfeeding II class. Mayo Clinic
provides Breastfeeding and Pumping
101 Class and Breastfeeding: Returning
to Work/School classes for nursing
moms and their partners.
Fortunately, businesses are
increasingly recognizing the need for
customers and employees to nurse or
pump breast milk. IBM has “Mother’s
Rooms” available on-site for nursing
moms to express breast milk during
working hours. There are also two nursing
rooms for mothers at Apache Mall.

Women in Business
Last years Golf Clinic was such a hit with the ladies that
we are bringing it back!

Welcome to our quarterly WIB event! The purpose of
these events is to support and uplift women in our
business community and connect them with resources
each and every one of us have. I am Heather Donovan
with Sterling State Bank. I have worked with this
wonderful family owned company for 10 years and
am the Assistant Vice President of home and business
lending. I welcome all business ladies to bring a friend
& their business cards to join us for a night of
networking and fun!

WHEN: Thursday, May 31 from 5:00 - 6:30 PM
WHERE: Willow Creek Golf Course
RSVP: marketing@sterlingstatebank.com
*Register today, and an official invite will be sent out closer to the event!*
SterlingStateBank_MJ18.indd 1

4/10/182018
5:43 PM
RWmagazine.com May/June
23

2
2

food and wine

Reach more than 22,000 area
women with each issue of
Rochester Women magazine.
Reserve your ad space in
Rochester Women July/August
2018 issue by Friday, May 25, 2018.

Mamma Mia!
CELEBRATE MOM IN STYLE

Contact Nikki Kranebell
nikki@RWmagazine.com
507-254-7109

BY EMILY WATKINS FOOD PHOTOS BY DAWN SANBORN PHOTOGRAPHY

H

APPY MOTHER’S DAY! ON SUNDAY, MAY 13, WE TAKE TIME TO
REMEMBER OUR MOMS AND OTHER WOMEN WHO HAVE CARED FOR
US. OF COURSE WE LOVE OUR MOTHERS EVERY DAY, BUT THIS HOLIDAY
GIVES US AN EXCUSE TO PAMPER THEM THE WAY THEY DESERVE.

Although this day is a happy one for many, it’s
important to remember that Mother’s Day
can be a difficult time for those who have lost
their mom. It can be a time to reflect and honor
those women who have gone before us and
whose memories we cherish. The woman who is
credited with advocating for Mother’s Day did so
to honor her own mother who had passed away.1
Local Rochester woman Tracy Will, who
lost her mother two and a half years ago, says
that it’s a “pretty hard holiday.” She appreciates
when others around her understand her
feelings and loves it when they share stories
about her mom. She makes a point to “let
8:44 PM
others in my life who serve in a mom-type
role know how much I appreciate them. I
also try to make my mother-in-law's Mother’s
Day special. Reaching out eases the pain and
affirms the good relationships that I do have.”
As you honor all the emotions of the day, create a
celebration that fits you and your family the best.
One common way to celebrate is with brunch.
We’ll provide some Mother’s Day brunch
ideas for you (or you can conveniently leave this
magazine open to this page around someone

24 May/June 2018 RWmagazine.com
dunnbro_MJ18.indd 1

4/13/18 3:02 PM

else whom you’d like to encourage to celebrate
with you). If you decide to head to a restaurant to
celebrate, you will find many options for brunch at
one of Rochester’s fabulous restaurants.
Forager Brewery is giving a free mimosa to
all moms during its Mother’s Day brunch from
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy made-from-scratch eggs,
French toast, biscuits and gravy, Gouda hash
browns, a meat carving station and a dessert
bar. Whistle Binkies Old World Pub serves an
expanded brunch featuring crab legs and prime
rib, and like every Sunday, they have their famous
bloody mary bar. Five West Kitchen & Bar will
also have a special Mother’s Day brunch with
some of the best eggs Benedict in town.

DIY BRUNCH
A do-it-yourself brunch is also a great option.
There’s nothing quite so beautiful as a spring
brunch table. There are many great make-ahead
recipes for egg bakes, French toast bakes, fruit
salads and even drinks to minimize day-of work.
Rochester Downtown Farmers Market moves
outside beginning May 5. On May 12, the day
before Mother’s Day, you’ll be able to shop for
the freshest local ingredients for your brunch.
The strata recipe we include here was inspired
by Jessica Joyce, manager of the farmers market,
who says that asparagus will be in season and
readily available, along with local ham and

Photo courtesy of Char Allen

RWmagazine.com M

1

cheeses, eggs and probably even chives. Grab
some bread from one of the vendors to use in
your recipe as well.

WHET YOUR WHISTLE
We are sharing a recipe from Duluth-based
Vikre Distillery. Rhubarb bellinis feature a
locally-grown springtime fruit (available at the
farmers market) in a syrup that can be made
ahead and simply mixed with a sparkling wine.
You can find other meats and baked goods,
as well as jams and honey at the farmers market.
In addition to food, decorate your table with
tulips, which you’ll find in abundance at this
time of year at the market. Buy pre-cut flowers
to decorate your table or to give, or buy potted
tulips for yourself or others, and when they
finish blooming inside, plant them outside to
enjoy them year after year.

Flowers are always a great gift option. Sandy
Stock, floral manager at Sargent’s on 2nd, says
that indoor blooming plants like orchids are
very popular gift items. They have a European
garden, which combines blooming plants with
greens in a container. Each plant is individually
set into the container and then can be
separated. Stock says that gift cards are always
popular, and they carry lots of other gift ideas
in their shops. She encourages moms to “drop
hints” about what they want.
Jim Whiting sells container gardens with a
variety of (three to seven) different annuals each,
professionally arranged with new hot plants that
can handle all conditions. Whiting says that they
carry unique flowers with “eye-busting color
combinations,” and their hanging baskets are
their biggest seller.
Head to St. Charles and see all that Thymeless
Flowers has for your decorations, as well as for gift
giving. Owner Shar Allen loves that houseplants
are making a decorating comeback, and they have
many unique options. She carries ever-popular
succulents for a variety of greens as well as colorful
hanging baskets. She also features jewelry, soaps,
lotions and artwork by local artists.
People’s Food Co-op carries a variety of plants
from blooming to terrarium and foliage plants
as well as air plants. They carry hanging baskets,
potted blooming bulbs and have a few prearranged bouquet options available, mostly from
Lenbush Roses in Plymouth, Minnesota.
However you celebrate, wherever you eat and
whatever gifts you give or receive, spread love
to those around you. Love is the superpower of
moms everywhere.

approximately 60 minutes or until egg
mixture is set in center. Let stand for 5
minutes before serving.

Rhubarb Bellini
Makes 1 1/2 cups of syrup
and 10 to 12 drinks

• 8 ounces fresh rhubarb
(chopped into ½ inch pieces)
•1
cup sugar (This makes for a relatively
non-tart syrup. If you like it tart, use ¾ cup.)
•1
cup boiling water
• P rosecco (or another dry
sparkling wine), chilled
To make the syrup, in a blender, combine the
rhubarb and sugar. Pour in the boiling water, cover
and blend until completely pureed. Strain through
a fine mesh sieve and store syrup in an airtight jar
for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Reserve the
pulp for another use, like spreading on buttered
toast or scones or stirring into some sautéed garlic
and ginger to make a topping for pork tenderloin.
To make the cocktail, put 3/4 ounce of the
chilled syrup in a cocktail coupe or Champagne
flute, then top with the prosecco. Adjust the
amount of rhubarb syrup to taste.
RWmagazine.com May/June 2018 25

Handy Gal’s Guide to
Home Maintenance
EARLY SUMMER ASSESSMENTS AND REPAIRS
BY CINDY MENNENGA

T

HE BEGINNING OF SUMMER IS A TIME OF
REBIRTH AND RENEWAL, A TIME TO ADORN THE
EXTERIOR OF YOUR HOUSE WITH PLANTERS AND
HANGING BASKETS, CREATING WATERFALLS OF
COLOR. EARLY SUMMER IS ALSO A GREAT TIME TO
CATCH UP ON LESS GLAMOROUS PROJECTS AND
MAINTENANCE AROUND YOUR HOUSE.

TAKE A GOOD LOOK
Now is a great time to assess winter’s damage to your home. Notice the
condition of your driveway; is it in need of upkeep or repairs? What
about your yard? Do you need to sod or reseed some areas that suffered
damage from our harsh winter?
Jeff Feece, owner of Jeff Feece Designs, suggests homeowners, together
with their landscape professional, “Take a walk around (the property)
and survey conditions to determine next steps.” He adds, “Be proactive to
head things off.”
If you have an irrigation system, it must be maintained to be kept
in good working order. Ben Petro, general manager of SprinklerMan,
recommends, “Have a good system inspection to check for damage that
occurred over winter from snowplows/snow blowers and rodents.” For
regular ongoing maintenance, Petro advises, “Run a short test cycle
every two to four weeks giving every section and zone a once-over
to make sure no leaks have developed. Also, as seasons change, reset
the controller or install a smart controller to automatically adjust the
settings based on conditions.”

TRIM THE BRANCHES
It’s time to get out in your yard and identify any trees or shrubs that
need to be trimmed before the full growing season is upon us. Things
to consider are branches that are hanging down or, appear to be
damaged and any branches that are close to the roof of your home that
need to be removed.
Ryan Hegland, owner of Hegland’s Creative Landscapes, advises,
“Shrubs near your home are a good hiding place for critters and criminals
who may be eyeing your home for a break-in. Hire a tree trimming
specialist to trim your trees and shrubs.” Tree trimming can be dangerous
work, and these pros are trained to trim trees safely.

MAINTAINING WINDOWS AND SCREENS
In addition to keeping your windows and sills clean, it’s a good idea
to inspect the overall condition of the window frame and sash. Look
for signs of rot, which can indicate moisture intrusion. Also, if you
notice moisture or haze within double and triple pane windows, it is an
indication of a failed seal. The seal in a window performs an important
function by contributing to the insulation capacity of the window.
To prevent ill-fitting, torn or dirty screens, keeping your screens
in good condition will help you enjoy having your windows open on

pleasant summer days. Basic care includes keeping the window casings
clean and free of debris and gently cleaning your screens with a soft brush
at least once a year. Any screens with tears or fading (which indicates an
imminent failure) need to be rescreened.

KEEP UP ON YOUR HOME’S UPKEEP
Staying on top of home maintenance is critical throughout the year.
Routine upkeep is less work and certainly less expensive if you follow
a seasonal schedule. Deferred work that gets shuffled to the bottom of
the to-do pile can eventually result in hefty repair bills and/or bigticket replacements. For example, a leaky roof, maintained early on
often includes pesky repairs; however, left alone that leaky roof may
eventually turn in to the need for an expensive new roof or possible
interior water damage.
Setting a home maintenance schedule—and following it—can save
time and money. Decide which tasks you can tackle yourself and give
yourself permission to hire a professional for those tasks that fall outside
your comfort zone. Either way, a well-kept home will retain its value so
you can continue to enjoy living in it for years to come.

indy Mennenga is a freelance writer and along with her
C
husband, John, owns Conspectus Home Inspection Services, LLC
based in Rochester. Visit conspectusmn.com for more information.
RWmagazine.com May/June 2018 27

OCHESTER COUPLE KAREN AND TOM BARRIE HAVE LIVED IN THEIR
FOUR-BEDROOM HOUSE FOR THE PAST 26 YEARS. “WE WANTED TO
DO THE KITCHEN FOR (THE PAST) FIVE YEARS,” ACCORDING TO KAREN.
THEY LAUNCHED THEIR KITCHEN RENOVATION AFTER DECIDING
TO STAY IN ROCHESTER. THE PROJECT TOOK THREE MONTHS OF
CONSTRUCTION, FROM JUNE THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2017. KAREN
SAYS IT WAS WORTH THE MANY MEALS COOKED OUTDOORS ON THE
BACKYARD GRILL WHILE THE KITCHEN WAS OUT OF COMMISSION.

SEA FOAM GLASS BACKSPLASH
The Barries couldn’t create an ocean view outside,
but they could bring the atmosphere of a seaside
cottage inside their Cape Cod-style house on
Rochester’s southwest side.
The homeowners and local design-build firm
Beyond Kitchens gutted their dark, dated kitchen
to transform it into a bright and open space with
a hint of the sea. As they rebuilt the kitchen, they
28 May/June 2018 RWmagazine.com

added accents reminiscent of the East Coast,
where Karen spent part of her childhood.
For example, a chip of glass found by Karen
inspired the color of the tiled backsplash above
the kitchen countertops. “I call it seafoam green,”
the homeowner shares.
Before the final wave of color, the shape and
layout of the kitchen needed change. Several
exposed wooden beams stretched overhead across
the kitchen and the adjacent great room. Workers

discovered that the beams were decorative and
they were not supporting the ceiling, explains
Diane Quinn, owner of Beyond Kitchens.
Removing the rustic beams–and a similar column
that stood at the edge of the kitchen–allowed easy
installation of drywall in the ceiling.

REARRANGING THE SPACE
“The space was not very useful,” laments Karen. In
fact, it was so limited that their food pantry was in
a bedroom closet instead of the kitchen. Today, the
Barries use a floor-to-ceiling pantry among a wall
of storage cabinets in their remodeled kitchen. The
remodeling added about one-third more storage
space to the kitchen, she says.
Among other inconveniences, the oven and
automatic dishwasher doors collided so that only
one could be open at a time. Quinn and project
designer, Christina Jorgensen, solved the collisions
by rearranging the appliances efficiently. “I still

1
1

remodelors corner

Barrie Home Remodel Includes
• A new, repositioned
window to enhance light
in the kitchen.

family heirlooms. “I wanted
it (the doors) to look like
melted glass; I didn’t want
flat (glass),” Karen says.

• A single “apron” sink
instead of a more popular
double sink.
• Lighted cupboards with
decorative glass doors for

Tom and Karen’s kitchen before remodeling.

believe in the work triangle,” Quinn maintains.
The work triangle puts the refrigerator, stove and
kitchen sink all within easy reach for making meals.

CENTER ISLAND
Another telltale sign of the 60s, a peninsula
countertop, disappeared in the new design. It had
been the main feature separating the U-shaped
kitchen from the great room and a dining table.
A center island replaced some counter space
lost when the peninsula vanished. A little over 5
feet long and 3 feet wide, the island is large enough
for two chairs, which fit beneath the overhang of
the island’s countertop. The island also contributes
to the seaside decor. Its quartz countertop is a light

• A window seat in the
family room, where
a dining table is also
located.

white, flecked with subtle sparkles. It looks a little
like sand sparkling in the sun, Karen says.
Custom-made iron brackets support part of the
quartz countertop. Those black brackets also are
accents that reflect other dark, metallic features in
the kitchen and great room. One example is a pair
of Edison lights hanging over the island.
The Barries chose black granite countertops for
their main work surfaces. The brightness of the
new kitchen comes largely from white cabinets
reflecting light throughout the room.

A SHADE OF GREEN
Karen's piece of sea foam glass gave the
room its main splash of color. “I wanted to

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• Natural wood flooring
throughout the main floor
to complement the original
floor in the oldest section
of the house, built in 1938.
• Additions to and
relocation of electrical
meter/service.

find a color as close to that as possible,” says
Karen, who is a retired graphic arts director.
Its role “just kind of (ties) the whole kitchen
together,” she explains.
The search for the right tile was challenging,
Quinn shares. Beyond Kitchens designers
found six choices, along with a special glass
grout that would not interfere with light
reflections in the tiles. Quinn calls the project
a “transitional” kitchen, a style between
contemporary and traditional.

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Bob Freund is a Rochester writer and
regular contributor to RochesterWomen.

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B: Has some
semblance of
order; however, I
own more blankets
than a hotel.

Regardless of your answer, everyone battles
with clutter. Even professional organizers have
organizational challenges. But as a professional
organizer, I understand what causes clutter and
have strategies to deal with it.

WHY THE CLUTTER?
The short answer…life. People have so many
sticks in the fire; they’re just trying to keep the
house from burning down. Life continues to
throw new opportunities (or obstacles) our way
and something has to give.
As I write this, laundry sits on my couch,
unfolded. Its time slot has been usurped: New
things disrupt our rhythms and we fall behind. We
already have work, kids, relationships, pets, plus the
barrage of daily mail, email and texts. No wonder
women feel pulled in a hundred different directions.

Pick where you’ll start. Give yourself two to three hours of undistracted
work time. No kids, no phone. Prepare three sorting tubs labeled TRASH,
DONATE and MOVE.

2

Identify how your space is used. Doing this gives it boundaries. You
wouldn't put Legos in your toolbox, would you? Boundaries highlight which items
belong, or don’t belong, in a space, allowing you to de-clutter accordingly.

3

Move the big stuff, then work in zones. Many of my clients are paralyzed
because they don't know where to begin. First, identify large items that won’t be
stored in the room and relocate them. Then, break the room into zones. A zone
might be a closet, nook, desktop or other small space. De-clutter one zone at a
time, moving clockwise to the next one. Repeat until all zones are completed.

4

Do not leave the space you're organizing. The innocent act of moving
"one item" to another room leads the best of us down a spiral of bunny trails.
Save your time and energy for the job at hand.

5

Be honest with yourself. Do you really want that coffee mug your girlfriend
gave you? How about the jeans you loved, but no longer fit? Let someone else
enjoy them! Make space for things that truly add value to your life.

6

Keep the momentum going. When deciding if something should stay
or go, make a decision within 15 seconds. Otherwise, set it aside. I call these
“simmer” items. After you've de-cluttered everything else, come back to these
items. Decision-making is easier when everything else has been dealt with.

SIX EASY STEPS
Ok, you get it. There are endless causes of clutter.
But you can tame the beast in six easy-to-follow
steps that will get you closer to being organized.

It is
recommended
that an individual
has six months’
worth of expenses
in savings.
~ Brittany Johnson

BUDGETING AND

SAVINGS
FINANCIAL GOALS FOR WOMEN
THROUGHOUT THEIR LIVES
BY ALISON RENTSCHLER

W

OMEN HAVE VARIOUS FINANCIAL GOALS AT DIFFERENT
STAGES OF THEIR LIVES. BUDGETING, SAVING AND INVESTING
SHOULD BE CONSIDERED. ROCHESTER AREA FINANCIAL EXPERTS
PROVIDE A FEW WAYS YOU CAN CREATE A BUDGET, PLAN SAVINGS
GOALS AND DETERMINE INVESTMENT STRATEGIES.

FOR YOUNG WOMEN
Women’s goals for budget and savings can
vary at different life stages. Brittany Schultz,
paraplanner for Kari Douglas of Echelon
Wealth Services, a private practice of
Ameriprise Financial Services, explains that
young women in their first jobs might have
savings goals for things like a home, a wedding
or retirement. She notes they might want to
create a budget, establish an emergency fund
and build credit.
Deb Wolf, account executive at Foresight
Investment Services at Foresight Bank says,
“It’s important for young women to be able
to manage on their own and to open the door

to great-paying job opportunities. There is
still a wage disparity for women, and that may
make it more challenging to be able to afford
the necessities of life and to also be able to
save. Young women may need to be even more
cognizant in their approach to budgeting and
saving than their male counterparts.”

FOR WOMEN WITH OR
WITHOUT KIDS
Wolf notes, “Women with families have a
balancing act that they need to perform for
20-plus years. In the early years of growing
your family, it is critical to find balance between
what is needed…and what is wanted for your

growing family. Establishing your family values
and goals early can help guide families to
successful saving and investment. It can also
prepare you for when your children are collegeaged and for your empty-nesting days.”
For women without children, Wolf suggests,
“Set up those values and align your financial
choices to ensure that you will be able to meet
your goals. Not having your own children
doesn’t mean that you won’t have children
come into your life or other special people
that you will count as family. Yet, not having
children may mean that you may be able to
have additional freedom to plan for an earlier
retirement or choose to do some of those life
events that may have been put off longer into
the future if you did have children.”

FOR WOMEN
WHO ARE RETIRED
“Women who are retired need to make certain
that they understand their finances,” suggests
Wolf. “Often, women are the ones that manage
the family finances, but rely on their spouses to
make the ‘big’ decisions. If their spouse passes
away, they may be emotionally bereft, but it’s
important not to also be financially out of
touch and unable to understand or not want to
understand the important facts of their financial
life. Women of this age need to make sure they
are also visiting with their spouse’s investment
advisor. Always make the effort to attend the
review meetings, ask questions, get clarification
and be part of the investment decisions.”
Wolf explains, “Most of our lives will
be spent in making the effort to save for
emergencies, for a home or for college or for
retirement. However, we will change gears as
we approach retirement and will need to turn
our attention to how best to position our funds
to ensure that we can fund what can become
a 30- or 40-year retirement vacation. We may
become more risk averse as we approach
retirement.”
RWmagazine.com May/June 2018 33

financial

2

CREATING A BUDGET

Schultz offers a few suggestions to consider when creating a budget.
She recommends reading books such as “The Total Money Makeover,”
by Dave Ramsey. “Think about your goals, what’s important to you and
what you want to spend your money on,” suggests Schultz. “(Meet)
with a financial advisor no matter what stage of life to create a custom
plan for you based on your goals and life stage.” Wolf agrees, noting,
“When setting a budget, be sure that it is consistent with your values and
supports your longer-term goals.”
Brittany Johnson, office manager at Altra Federal Credit Union, says,
“For women who are making their way into the workforce, budgeting and
savings are particularly important. Financial obligations such as housing
expenses, utility bills and student loan payments are now something they
are responsible for. This can seem a little overwhelming, but having a
budget and sticking to it can help ease some of those stresses.”
“When completing a monthly budget,” Johnson recommends, “It is
important to factor in all monthly expenses. These expenses can include
car payments, insurance, gasoline and maintenance of your vehicle. In
addition, budgeting for things such as entertainment and clothing can
decrease your chances of overspending.”
Schultz suggests accounting for every dollar you spend for about
three to six months to determine where the money is going. “Based on
that, you can create a budget and plan to stay within your budget. For
saving money, set up auto transfers either directly from your paycheck
or checking account to your savings, and pretend the money isn’t
there. With retirement savings, plan to put at least 50 percent of any pay
increases toward your retirement plan. Always keep an emergency fund!”

THE IMPORTANCE OF SAVINGS
Johnson suggests saving money throughout life. “It is important for
young women to start thinking about saving money. Due to unforeseen
events and circumstances, it is recommended that an individual has six
months’ worth of expenses in savings.”

Always make the effort
to attend the review meetings,
ask questions, get clarification and
be part of the investment decisions.
~ Deb Wolfl

Johnson recommends, “Putting away even a small amount each
month and determining your wants versus your needs will also help
in saving money. Is it more important to have a new pair of jeans
or to put money in savings for emergencies that may arise in the
future?” First Alliance Credit Union’s blog offers basics of a budget
plan, tips to avoid overspending, how to pay off your credit card debt
and ways to create healthy financial habits. In addition, First Alliance
Credit Union has Rochester Savings Challenge campaign going on to
encourage people to save.

Alison Rentschler is a Rochester-based writer and editor.

34 May/June 2018 RWmagazine.com

INVESTING
STRATEGIES
When considering investment strategies, Wolf says, “Start!
There is no investment strategy in the world that will work
better than simply to open an account and begin. Take
advantage of the time-value of money. It’s a great opportunity
to have a long time horizon to retirement, but it’s important
to take advantage of that horizon, as it’s possible to achieve a
great retirement with smaller amounts, if started in your early
savings years.”
Wolf also suggests contributing to your employer’s
retirement plan. “Don’t leave money on the table. Take
advantage of your employer’s retirement plan. At a minimum
you should contribute enough to get the full match from your
employer. If you have a 401(k) or a 403(b) plan at work and
your employer offers to match a particular percentage of what
you contribute to the plan, do it. It’s money that you will not
otherwise have.”
If you are given a wage increase, Wolf suggests, “Do the
same for your savings and investing accounts. Designate a
portion of the increase to you. You are paying yourself when
you save money. Pay yourself first.”
Regarding taxes, Wolf suggests working with your tax
preparer to determine a “break-even” withholding amount
so you owe nothing in taxes and the government doesn’t
owe you. Schultz says, “It’s important to know the most
beneficial way of saving for yourself. For example, determine
what would be most tax-efficient for your retirement plan—
traditional 401(k) versus Roth 401(k).”
With these suggestions in mind, you’ll be well on your way
to working on your budgeting, savings and investing goals.

Supporting Women
in Leadership
Since 1934.
Home Federal Savings Bank, which operates
under the parent company HMN Financial,
has always been a big supporter of women in
leadership, and has a strong representation of
women on our board of directors and in
executive positions.

High on the walls of the Leashes & Leads store are photos of Nell, her
husband, Jack, and Nell’s parents, signaling a welcome home feeling to all
who enter. While the store offers a large variety of pet supplies, the primary
focus of the business is service over sales.
The fundamental theme, “Where People and Pets Come Together,” is
an evident aspect of the Leashes & Leads experience, and this is largely
due to Nell’s vision of creating a community where people could come
with their dogs—maybe utilizing the boarding facilities by day while
attending appointments at Mayo Clinic—then unwinding at day’s end
with a game of fetch.

In keeping with Nell’s vision
and last wishes, the gates entering
Montgomery Meadows will
read, ‘Welcome Home.’

BY CATHERINE H. ARMSTRONG

“NELL’S WAY”

J

Cindy Mennenga holds a degree in English and is a freelance writer
and owner of MedCity WordCraft, LLC. She conducted more than 30
interviews in the writing of “Nell’s Way” and says learning Nell’s story and
the background behind the creation of Leashes & Leads was “handsdown the highlight of my professional career, to date.”
Of the interviews with those closest to Nell, all of whom attested to the
generous and loving woman she was, Mennenga summarizes, “Nell was love:
she gave and received love freely and the world is a bit smaller and sadder
today without her here being a ray of sunshine in everyone’s life.”
Nell’s “way” was to lift up those around her. Even while dealing with the
passing of her husband or the trials of battling cancer, she never stopped
extending herself to support those fighting their own strife, and her legacy
lives on as her family continues developing the community with the
fundamental principles of family and faith.
Fifty percent of all profits from sales of “Nell’s Way” go to the
Montgomery Meadows Equine Scholarship Fund to assist children with
riding lessons. Pick up your copy of “Nell’s Way” at Leashes & Leads (also
available at Amazon.com) and while there, schedule an appointment to tour
the facility—you won’t regret it!

UST WEST OF ROCHESTER ON HIGHWAY 14 IS
A MAJESTIC STRUCTURE HOUSING A LOCALLY
OWNED PET STORE AND BOARDING FACILITY,
LEASHES & LEADS. FOR YEARS I’VE HEARD
ACCOLADES FROM FRIENDS, PRAISING THE
BUSINESS FOR ITS PET TRAINING AND BOARDING
SERVICES. I’VE ALWAYS INTENDED TO VISIT BUT
NEVER MADE THE TIME UNTIL READING “NELL’S
WAY,” A BIOGRAPHY WRITTEN BY LOCAL AUTHOR
CINDY MENNENGA, WHICH RECOUNTS THE LIFE
OF NELL MONTGOMERY MITCHELL—THE HEART
AND SOUL BEHIND THE CONCEPT AND SERVICES
PROVIDED BY LEASHES & LEADS.

Opening in 2008, Leashes & Leads has grown into a premier facility,
training more than 2,000 dogs each year. Their services now include
agility, tricks, and competitive training, as well as Doggy Daycare,
grooming, an on-site veterinarian, pet supplies and a boarding facility.
Last October, Nell’s vision was expanded with the opening of an equine
park, complete with stabling, training and riding lessons. The final stage of
development—a gated community named Montgomery Meadows—recently
listed the first 14 lots and, when fully developed, will include walking paths,
horse trails, on-site stables and an equine training facility. In keeping with
Nell’s vision and last wishes, the gates entering Montgomery Meadows will
read, “Welcome Home.”

DEDICATED TO SERVING OTHERS
Published in November 2017, “Nell’s Way” is a beautiful tribute to a
woman whose life was guided by her faith, an unwavering love of family,
and a dedication to improving the lives of others. In addition to being
the financial backer who gave life to Leashes & Leads, she was actively
involved in all aspects of the business’ philosophy, epitomized in the
family-friendly feeling one gets when visiting the property.

TRAVELING WITH KIDS CAN BE ALL THAT AND MORE
BY RENEE BERG
Sarah and son
Reed pose near the
Paul Bunyan statue
in Bemidji.

sleeping. “My husband and I are very thankful
we have this time together: the two of us and
our boys! The years pass by so quickly. It’s
important to us to make memories to last a
lifetime–ours and theirs,” shares Kahn. “(We
have) great big hopes that one day, they’ll do
the same types of memory-making with their
own families.”
“The best thing about traveling with children
is they will remember it forever,” says Judith
Zavala, local travel agent with Cruise Planners.
“It’s wonderful for them to understand and see
other cultures, explore history of the U.S. and
other countries and, if you live in Minnesota,
it’s great to see a real beach that isn’t a lake.”

TRAVELING WITH TEENS

Sarah helps son
Trey hold a fish at
the family's lake
cabin near Itasca
State Park.

V

ETERAN ROADTRIPPER MEG HAFDAHL LOVES PACKING THE
FAMILY’S RV AND HITTING THE OPEN ROAD WITH HUSBAND,
LUKE, AND SONS FOX, 10, AND DEXTER, 6. THE COUPLE BOUGHT
THEIR RIG A YEAR AGO AND SPENT LAST SUMMER EXPLORING.

“The boys were big enough, and we wanted it
to be a summer memory they looked back on
with nostalgia,” says the Rochester mom. “Last
summer we went to the Wisconsin Dells, as
well as the Iron Range, Kamp Dels and a few
other Minnesota places. We loved it!”

children when they were infants to prepare
them and myself for travel,” Larson remarks.
“I want to instill in them my excitement about
adventure and also let them know that with
just a few simple tricks, traveling is easy and a
wonderful togetherness activity.”

THE JOURNEY, NOT
JUST THE DESTINATION

CATCHING FISH, EATING
S’MORES AND MAKING
MEMORIES

Sarah Larson always heads to the family’s lake
cabin near Itasca State Park with sons Reed, 6,
and Trey, 4, for two weeks each summer. Larson
has learned how to approach the five-hour drive
for best results with her tykes. She packs a bag
full of library books, sticker books, Matchbox
cars, crayons and paper and props it in the back
seat for whenever the boys get restless.
“Since my family lives so far away, I knew
that I needed to travel early and often with my
38 May/June 2018 RWmagazine.com

For locals Amy and Andy O’Hare and their
children, Ahnika, 14, and Abbott, 10, this summer’s
hot spot is Duluth, Minnesota where the family
plans to take in Spirit Mountain and Gooseberry
Falls and go agate hunting and camping.
Plainview’s Rebecca Kahn’s family consisting
of husband, Brock, and Isaac, 14, and Jared, 10,
will surely be found at one of our state parks,
where they enjoy s’mores, campfires and tent

For Shannon Hrabak, mom to 15-year-old
Megan, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
is a frequent destination. But she suggests being
realistic about how family time will go. For
example, if you are traveling with teens, it can
be different than one anticipates if you aren’t
mindful of their boundaries.
“Let them pick out a couple of things they
would like to see or do if possible and value
their opinions,” Hrabak says of teen travelers.
“Be respectful of their need to disappear into
their book or phone for a while to recharge,
and don’t expect them to stay engaged all of
the time.”

DON’T LET THE KIDS
RUN THE WHOLE SHOW,
PARENTALS
Hafdahl cautions parents not to let children run
the whole show when planning and embarking
on a trip. “I would say, try to balance what you
want out of the trip and what your kids want,”
she says. “My boys want to be busy constantly
and I want to relax and do some reading, so
make time for both.”
If a road trip isn’t your idea of a good time,
consider direct flights out of Rochester or
Minneapolis. Travel expert Tammy Marquez,
travel consultant with Rochester’s Bursch
Travel says, “There are some great airfares out
there right now to locations you may not first
think of for a vacation.”

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Strengthening Body and Relationship
ONE REP OR MILE AT A TIME
BY HOLLY GALBUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY FAGAN STUDIOS
Eva and Colleen Timimi
enjoy running together.

relationship and talk about many things,” Colleen says. “My hope is that
as she gets older, and life becomes more complicated, we will continue to
have opportunities to be together like that.”
Colleen is a member of “Chatty Chicks” running group. This group
recently spawned “Little Chicks,” a group for the daughters who run with
their moms. Both Colleen and Eva enjoy running with the group and are
happy for the new friendships made along the way.
The Timimi pair also work on their fitness goals together. They both
participate in various races throughout the year, like the Quarry Hill 5K
Trail Race, Med-City Marathon, and the July 4 race in Stewartville. For
the Timimi family, running is a family tradition. Colleen’s parents and
grandparents were all runners, and she says she enjoys passing on her
love of running to her daughter.

BONDING ON THE YOGA MAT
For mothers and daughters (15 and older) who want to connect with each
other and practice their Warrior II pose all at the same time, Urban Yoga
offers a variety of classes and workshops for both beginner and advanced
yoga students. Owner Destiny Breland will be guiding a special Mother’s Day
eve class that combines restorative yoga with a meditation aimed at honoring
the different types of maternal connections we have. “We will honor the
bond we have with our mother, and our internal mother, as well as weave in
the maternal energy of Mother Earth.”

A

WEALTH OF OPTIONS EXISTS FOR MOTHERS
AND DAUGHTERS WHO WANT TO SPEND TIME
EXERCISING TOGETHER. THERE ARE SIGNIFICANT
BENEFITS FOR BOTH THEIR RELATIONSHIP AND THEIR
HEALTH AND WELLNESS THAT CAN LAST A LIFETIME.

A STRONGER BOND
“A mother plays a key role in her daughter’s physical activity level,” says Nicole
Cummings, group fitness and yoga instructor at Olmsted Medical Center.
“The role modeling a mom does can improve her daughter’s health and
fitness behaviors, and instill habits that are an investment in her future fitness.
And stronger emotional bonds will grow as they laugh and have fun together.”
Cummings teaches a variety of classes in which moms and daughters
can participate together. Prenatal and post-natal yoga classes encourage
the growth of the mother-daughter bond in its earliest stages. School-age
daughters and their moms can participate in cardio and strength training,
circuit or yoga. A unique, 12-week fitness program—Tai Ji Quan—is
designed to help older adults improve balance and mobility in order to
reduce the risk of falling. “There are two sets of moms and daughters
currently enrolled in this class,” Cummings says. “And it’s amazing to watch
their bond and support of each other.”

A LOVE OF RUNNING
Colleen Timimi and her 11-year-old daughter, Eva, began running
together more than two years ago. They say they enjoy the opportunity
to connect with each other and to have time to talk. “We have an open

DESIGNED FOR YOU
Many options exist for mothers and daughters who enjoy the structure of a
class, but if they would like a more personalized approach to their exercise
routine, a personal trainer can be helpful in designing a program that meets
both mom’s and daughter’s unique needs.
Emily Watkins is a personal trainer and the owner of Empowered
Wellness and Fitness Studio. Her clients include mom and daughter duos
that enjoy working on their fitness goals together, and appreciate the
support the other gives. “They have the extra motivation of knowing the
other will be there,” explains Watkins.

ACTIVITIES FOR MOTHERS AND DAUGHTERS
Summer Climbing Adventure for Child and Adult Class at Roca Climbing
and Fitness (grades K-6, w/adult), four class sessions available June, July and
August. Visit climbroca.com/parent-andchild-classes for more info.
Wiggle Wednesdays at Allegro School
of Dance and Music, first Wednesday each
month, September-May 10:30-11:15
a.m. Visit allegrodancemusic.com/
wigglewednesday.html for more info.
Zumba on the Plaza in Peace Plaza,
Mondays, June-August, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

TERRALOCO
Piotrowicz strives to offer what the community
wants and needs in a specialty shop. “It’s a
running store that’s there to support anyone
in the community, from competitive runners
to people who just want to be more active,”
says Piotrowicz. The staff is available and
ready to assist whether you’ve somehow
been convinced to sign up for your first 5K or
you are working toward a Boston Marathon
qualifying time.
Though its roots are a running store,
Piotrowicz describes TerraLoco as an “active
lifestyle” retail shop, catering to feet that are
hard to fit. The store is also the only place
in Rochester to offer video gait analysis
so customers can find the perfect shoe for
the way they run. Always moving forward,
Piotrowicz is diversifying and will offer
not only running gear and apparel, but also
yoga, hiking, athleisure and casual clothing.
TerraLoco offer classes, running groups and
other workshops, as well.

BEGINNING THE JOURNEY

“T

ERRESTRIAL LOCOMOTION. IT’S WALKING THE EARTH. IT’S
MOVING FORWARD,” DESCRIBES TERRALOCO OWNER TIFFANY
PIOTROWICZ REGARDING THE RUNNING STORE’S NAME, WHICH
INTENTIONALLY EXCLUDES THE WORD “RUNNING.” AFTER A FEW
MINUTES WITH TERRALOCO’S DOWN-TO-EARTH AND FRIENDLY
OWNER, IT IS EASY TO SEE THAT “MOVING FORWARD“ DESCRIBES
PIOTROWICZ AS WELL.

BUSINESS OWNER
A Rochester native, Piotrowicz studied paralegal
and English at Winona State University. This
may not be the typical education of a business
owner, but she had been working at the running
store as a manager when the opportunity to buy
TerraLoco arose. Though she didn’t see herself
as a business owner (at least not at that time),
42 May/June 2018 RWmagazine.com

Piotrowicz seized the opportunity anyway and
has owned TerraLoco since 2015.
Piotrowicz credits her success in the retail
business to taking chances and asking for help
when needed. TerraLoco’s success may also
be related to the practice of listening to the
community in regard to filling both TerraLoco’s
shelves and Piotrowicz’s own schedule.

Piotrowicz is always moving forward but it
wasn’t always as a runner. In 2010 she was
“overweight, out of shape and in a funk,” she
states. After seeing the exhaustion and elation
of a friend in the 2010 Med City Marathon,
Piotrowicz decided she could do that too. She
signed up for and completed her first sprint
triathlon later that summer. She finished that
race and she’s been running and racing since.
She thinks back over that journey when she
makes decisions about events and products
offered at TerraLoco. She always keeps the new
runner in mind and states that a big part of
TerraLoco is reaching out to those who don’t
really see themselves as runners.
Piotrowicz wants everyone from new to
experienced runners to feel welcome in a “no
judgment, no intimidation atmosphere.” To
that goal, TerraLoco hosts running classes for
beginners and gets people started in the sport
from wherever they are in their own journey.
Piotrowicz says, “TerraLoco isn't a store; it is a
community. We are a family of runners, walkers
and everything in between. We fail sometimes,
just like you. We have a hard time rolling out of
bed when the schedule calls for a long run on
a Sunday morning, just like you. We hesitate
over clicking that 'Register' button, just like you.
We're in this journey together.”

COMMUNITY
Piotrowicz uses the term “community” a lot.
And it is clear she means it. TerraLoco shows
its commitment to community by offering

TerraLoco isn't a store; it is a community.
We are a family of runners, walkers and
everything in between.
discounts for local high school athletes,
runners’ self-defense classes and pacing teams
at local marathons. The store relies on the
community of Rochester and other locally
owned businesses to be successful. Piotrowicz
sees strong interconnectivity between herself
and the Rochester business community. She
feels the support among business owners
in Rochester and is very intentional about
supporting locally owned businesses herself.
Collaboration within the nonprofit
community is important too. Courtney Lawson,
executive director of the National Alliance on
Mental Illness Southeast Minnesota, loved the
community focus she saw at TerraLoco and
reached out to Piotrowicz with an idea. The
pair joined forces to offer a running group to
help runners maintain positive mental health.
Lawson shares she is, “Continually impressed
by Tiffany’s willingness to think innovatively
and (the fact that she) is connected to a variety

1

of local resources.”
TerraLoco hosts weekly $5 5K runs to
benefit local nonprofits, bringing in 40-100
runners weekly, all sweating for a cause.
These runs offer an easy way to support local
nonprofits while improving one’s own fitness
at the same time. They also offer an easy way
to strengthen relationships with others, learn
about a local cause and possibly explore
volunteering with a new group.

STAY OUT OF THE SUN RUN
Moving forward in yet another direction,
Piotrowicz will continue in her second year
as race director for Rochester’s own Stay Out
of the Sun (SOS) 5K and 10K run May 18.
TerraLoco will continue as race sponsor. The
SOS run is in its 13th year of heightening
awareness and boosting funding for melanoma
research. The SOS run also offers a unique
opportunity to race at night. Piotrowicz is

health and wellness

proud to point out that all proceeds from the
run benefit melanoma research and education
through the Mayo Clinic Cancer Center in
Rochester.
Thinking about lacing up your shoes and
moving forward in your running journey?
Piotrowicz encourages, “Take it one step at
a time, but go for it.” She emphasizes setting
ground rules for yourself along with setting
a personal goal. Force yourself into doing
the work and then…do the work. If you are
looking for a great personal goal to work
toward, click the ‘Register’ button for the Stay
Out of the Sun Run (sosrun.org) and join
the Rochester running community. You can
bet Piotrowicz will be there, always moving
forward.

Erin Pagel is a freelance writer in
Rochester and is on her own running
journey.

MAY 9
Women on Wednesdays Presents:
Still Sisters of The Yam? Black
Feminism in the Age of Beyonce,
Rochester Civic Theatre, explore social happenings
and partake in discussion, 5:30-7 p.m., 282-8481,
rochestercivictheatre.org

HEN I PEEL BACK THROUGH MY PARENTS’ PHOTO ALBUMS, THERE IS A COMMON THEME…
PAGES AND PAGES OF ME POSING, TRYING ON MY NEW SCHOOL CLOTHES, SMILING IN
AN EXAGGERATED FASHION TO PROVE HOW CHEERFUL I WAS. I LOVED BEING THE CENTER OF
ATTENTION. I NEEDED THE ATTENTION. IT WAS MY LIFE SOURCE.
Fast forward 20 years. I am now an adult with a career and a home and
a husband (and am severely embarrassed by my neediness as a child).
Enter my daughter, Cecelia. From the moment she was born, Cecelia had
an audience in us, her mom and dad. She is totally her mother’s daughter.
Now I get to see what my parents experienced. And, let me tell you, it is
such an amazingly entertaining show.
I was always the kid who would talk to anyone. I remember standing
in line at Disney World and asking, “Who farted?” in the middle of a
crowd. That was me, unafraid to say whatever came to mind. I danced all
around the living room to the "Lion King" soundtrack. I would sneak my
mother’s lipstick and tell the baby sitter I ate a sucker in the bathroom. Now
my daughter provides me with an abundance of good stories. Coming from
someone who lived a childhood hungry for affection and an audience, I see
what she’s doing. And I may be biased, but Cecelia is crushing it.

CLAP YOUR HANDS
Cecelia is direct. Where I would ask my parents if they thought my jokes
were funny, she flat out says, “Laugh.” When I would say things like “Ta
da!” she announces, “That makes you happy.” She gets it. She is her own
cheerleader, and she is unafraid to tell you what she needs. In the car the
other day, Cecelia sang the ABCs, then immediately directed my husband
and me to “clap your hands.” And, you know what? We clapped.
Adults could learn a little something from this 2-year-old. It is OK to
toot your own horn. It’s hard for us to be direct. We say things like, “Do
you like that idea?” or “Maybe it won’t work. I don’t know, I just thought
46 May/June 2018 RWmagazine.com

I would propose it.” My 2-year-old doesn’t beat around the bush. She
does her very best, then instructs you how to react. And if we didn’t clap,
it wouldn’t faze her. She would sing again and instruct her audience to
clap. I’m happy that I have played a part in developing her self-esteem and
her bravery to safely speak her mind.

I’LL ALWAYS BE YOUR BIGGEST FAN
Becoming a mother was the most terrifying and joyful decision that
ever fell into my lap. I have an opportunity to teach someone not to
pick her nose, encourage her to sit on the potty and help her realize that
pattern-matching is important when dressing. I am also her own personal
audience. Her father and I are so in love, we would watch whatever she
was doing, and we love the confidence she has. I hope we never do
anything to tarnish that confidence. A 2-year-old walks through life
with a sense of wonderment. They do their best, or they tell you they’re
worried they can’t do it. They put themselves out there in hopes that their
actions can make someone happy. And, they usually do.
My daughter reminds me that even the ABCs can be quality afternoon
entertainment. She reminds me to stop and smell the roses. She reminds
me of myself, and we connect on a whole other level. She needs someone
to support her as she tries things, and I will always be that person. Not just
for the funny little stories, but because I understand her. And, I always clap
my hands for her.

Kathryn Lenn is available for any extra attention you want
to throw her way.

Photo courtesy of Kathryn Lenn.

LIKE MOTHER, LIKE DAUGHTER

1
WE’RE EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THE

RE-OPENING OF

AFTER A DEVASTATING FIRE IN APRIL 2017 THAT RESULTED IN A TOTAL LOSS OF OUR SHOP,

WE HAVE REBUILT FROM THE ASHES AND ARE NOW OFFICIALLY OPEN
AND BACK TO SERVICING EUROPEAN-MADE VEHICLES IN OUR
SAME LOCATION – EXACTLY ONE YEAR LATER.
AS A SMALL FAMILY BUSINESS, THE REBUILD WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE
WITHOUT THE SUPPORT OF THIS AMAZING COMMUNIT Y, AND

WITH GRATITUDE AND APPRECIATION, WE WHOLE-HEARTEDLY SAY

THANK YOU

TO ALL INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESSES WHO HELPED
MAKE OUR AUTO SERVICE A REALITY AGAIN.

YOU’RE INVITED TO JOIN US FOR OUR

RE-GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION
IN LATE MAY 2018!

FIND FULL DETAILS ON

.COM/WERKSTATT533

RWmagazine.com |May/June 2018 47
507. 258.6342 | WWW.WERKSTATT533.COM

LET’S FIND A BETTER WAY

The earlier that breast cancer can be found, the
higher the chance of a cure. The purpose of the
STRIVE Study is to evaluate a new blood test. This
blood test may be able to detect breast cancer in its
early stages by finding small pieces of genetic material
released into the blood by the tumor.
You may be eligible for this research study if you are
receiving a screening mammogram at Mayo Clinic.
The earlier that breast cancer can be found, the
higher the chance
of a cure.
purpose
Participants
will receive
a gift The
valued
at $25of the
Study is
evaluate a
test.and
This
inSTRIVE
appreciation
fortoproviding
a new
bloodblood
sample
blood test may
be able to detect breast cancer in its
completing
a questionnaire.
early stages by finding small pieces of genetic material
released into the blood by the tumor.

This research is being conducted
in collaboration with Mayo Clinic

To learn more visit:
www.JoinSTRIVE.com

This research isa
being
conducted
30 minutes of your time could help make available
new
in collaboration with Mayo Clinic
bloodfor
test
detecting
breast
You may be eligible
this for
research
study if you
are cancer early

receiving a screening mammogram at Mayo Clinic.
Participants will receive a gift valued at $25
in appreciation for providing a blood sample and
completing a questionnaire.